Sport Bild Report: Bochum in talks to acquire Kunde Malong
Germany's main sporting tabloid reports that VfL Bochum are interested in bringing former FSV Mainz 05 midfielder Pierre Kunde Malong back to the Bundesliga.
After departing Germany for Greece just one summer ago, Cameroonian international Pierre Kunde Malong may be headed back to Germany's top footballing flight. Germany's Sport Bild reports that the 26-year-old would very much like to return to the Bundesrepublik. VfL Bochum, in dire need of midfield reinforcements ahead of their second season in the top division, are potential suitors.
Malong put together a serviceable year playing for Olympiacos, making 21 appearances across all competitions for the Piraeus club. The long-time Mainz professional's market value remains €3 million, but Mainz were able to offload him for half that last year. Presumably, the Revierklub could obtain Malong for €1.5 million or less.
Restocking the midfield remains a top priority for the 1848ers next season. Loanees Elvis Rexhbecaj (Wolfsburg), Konstantinos Stafylidis (Hoffenheim), and Eduard Löwen (Hertha BSC) are all due back at their respective parent clubs at the end of the month. The expiring contracts of veteran Robert Tesche and Milos Pantovic are unlikely to be renewed.
Kunde Malong (sometimes referred to simply as "Pierre Kunde") scored four goals in 68 appearances during his three-year-stint with the Rheinhessen.